The programme will work with local business partners to foster innovation and drive economic growth, by providing early-stage entrepreneurs with the tools they need to grow within in the UK Tech sector.

The Ecosystem Partnership Programme will be delivered by Barclays Eagle Labs, which provides access to essential skills, academic resources and business support and funded by the Digital Growth Grant (DGG). Nine local organisations in regions across the UK have been selected to receive funding of up to £250K through the programme. The businesses selected will match the funding they receive pound for pound to put towards their programmes which are designed to nurture and accelerate the growth of tech and digital businesses in their respective regions.

Amanda Allan, Director of Barclays Eagle Labs, said: “We are delighted to support these projects aimed at assisting early-stage tech entrepreneurs across the UK. It’s crucial to bolster startups and scaleups, especially in sectors such as AI, climate tech, and digital innovation.

“Through the Ecosystem Partnership Programme, funded by the Digital Growth Grant, Barclays allocates funding to organisations deeply integrated into their national and regional ecosystems. These initiatives are poised to play a pivotal role in supporting startups and scaleups, which are integral to driving local economies forward.”

Barclays Eagle Labs has ringfenced £1.2m of the Digital Growth Grant in the second year of funding to support delivering activities in local ecosystems. This will be match-funded by the selected partners, meaning the Ecosystem Partnership Programme funding will help deliver £2.4m of equivalent value to the UK ecosystem.

The Ecosystem Partnership Programme offers a tailored suite of support services, including digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship training, and access to networking and funding opportunities. These initiatives reflect the unique strengths and specialisations of their respective regions, whether it’s supporting healthtech in Scotland, the creative industries in Wales or cyber security in the South West.

The programmes supported by the Digital Growth Grant include:

Bayspace St Ives

BetaDen Incubate

BCU Enterprise Limited

Cyber Cheltenham

Manchester Digital Ltd

Northern Reach

Opportunity North East

Sunderland Software City

Tramshed Tech